by jbs031510 f3 — March 17, 2010—The Carbon Trust, fund manager Threadneedle and developer Stanhope announced March 12 they are partnering in a new fund that aims to significantly increase the availability of high-specification, low-carbon commercial property in the U.K.
The Threadneedle Low-Carbon Workplace Trust (Threadneedle LCW Trust) plans to raise £100 million in the next 12 months and up to £350 million within three years from institutional investors. It will refurbish up to 50 properties over the next five years to best-practice, low-carbon standards.
Occupiers will be offered space at market rates and will benefit from significant reductions in carbon emissions and energy consumption. They will also receive ongoing assistance to help them occupy the buildings to their full low-carbon potential.
Around 40 potential occupiers have already expressed interest in the Low-Carbon Workplace concept, with demand being driven by the perceived reputational benefits of occupying low-carbon properties, reduced energy costs, and legislation including the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme. The first occupier announcement is expected within the next few weeks.
